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Shanghai Masters: Valentin Vacherot's Fairytale Win

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Valentin Vacherot
Vacherot wins Shanghai Masters, Jumps to 40th in Rankings



Valentin Vacherot makes history as the lowest-ranked Masters 1000 champion after defeating cousin Arthur Rinderknech in the Shanghai Masters final.


“I sweated everything I had, I gave it all, and that's all that matters, and I really enjoyed my time on the court...”


Valentin Vacherot stunned his cousin Arthur Rinderknech 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 to claim the Shanghai Masters title. Ranked 204th in the world, Vacherot became the lowest-ranked champion in ATP Masters 1000 history.


The all-family final turned out to be a fairytale ending for Vacherot, who was coached by his half-brother Benjamin Balleret. Vacherot's win marks one of the most unexpected outcomes in the tournament's history.


“I want to thank someone without whom I wouldn't be here - that person is obviously Arthur,” said Vacherot as he accepted his trophy.


“It's completely mad, I can't believe it,” he added in French.


“It would have been better to have two winners, but a whole family won today.


“What we did this week, it's completely crazy, no one can take it from us.”


Arthur Rinderknech seized control of the match early, breaking Valentin Vacherot in the third game with a clutch backhand shot. The elder cousin capitalized on Vacherot's unforced errors to take the first set.


The second set unfolded similarly, with both players holding serve and neither able to gain a decisive advantage. The intense match was observed by tennis legend Roger Federer from the stands.




Rinderknech averted disaster in the eighth game, saving a break point with a clutch ace. However, he couldn't capitalize on his advantage and faced another break point after an unforced error. Vacherot seized the opportunity, converting the break and forcing a deciding set.


The third set began explosively, with Vacherot immediately putting pressure on Rinderknech's serve. Vacherot didn't waste any time, breaking his cousin early to take a 1-0 lead.


As the match wore on, Valentin Vacherot's confidence grew, while Arthur Rinderknech appeared to struggle with the humid conditions. Vacherot sensed his chance, pouncing on Rinderknech's lapses to build momentum.




Despite Rinderknech's brief resurgence after receiving treatment, Vacherot remained focused. He broke again in the ninth game, securing the title and collapsing to the ground in shock and jubilation.


Arthur Rinderknech and Valentin Vacherot shared a heartfelt moment, sitting side-by-side with Rinderknech putting his arm around Vacherot's shoulder as they awaited the prize ceremony. Both cousins had impressive runs, with Rinderknech defeating world number three Alexander Zverev and Daniil Medvedev, while Vacherot ended Novak Djokovic's title hopes and also beat world number 11 Holger Rune.



Valentin Vacherot is set to skyrocket from 204th to 40th in the ATP rankings after his remarkable win at the Shanghai Masters. The cousins, Vacherot and Rinderknech, were overcome with emotion during the ceremony, with Rinderknech keeling over and needing assistance into a chair.


“I sweated everything I had, I gave it all, and that's all that matters, and I really enjoyed my time on the court,” Vacherot said, reflecting on his historic win.




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